A few missing teeth might not be seen as an issue worthy of your attention, but it can turn out to be more than just a gap between your smile. You may face difficulty with eating and speaking, and even the shape of your face changes over time. Dental implants offer a practical solution that offers both function and natural aesthetics back into your life. However, when choosing an option that perfectly fits your needs, you will have different types of implants to consider. Understanding all your options will ensure you find one that meets your requirements.
So here, we’ll introduce you to the different types of dental implants, explain their functions, and highlight what makes each variety unique.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental or tooth implants are also known as artificial tooth roots that are made using titanium or ceramic and are surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as stable bases for crowns, bridges, or dentures. They look, feel, and function the same as to natural a person’s natural teeth making them an appealing option when replacing missing ones.
The Main Types of Implants
Three primary dental implants types are generally used to replace missing teeth:
Endosteal Implants
These are the most commonly used tooth implant types. Endosteal implants are those small screw-shaped devices that are placed directly into your jawbone.
Features:
- Made from titanium or ceramic
- Need a healthy jawbone support
- Often used for single or multiple tooth replacements
Who They’re Best For:
Patients with sufficient jawbone density and those seeking a permanent, sturdy solution for missing teeth.
Subperiosteal Implants
These implants are positioned on the top of your jawbone but under the gum tissue. Instead of being inserted into the bone, they sit on the surface and are held in an area via a metal framework.
Features:
- Used if the patient has inadequate bone density for endosteal implants
- Ideal for patients who can not undergo bone grafting
- Less invasive than endosteal implants
Who They’re Best For:
Patients with vast bone loss who prefer a less invasive treatment or can’t have bone graft surgery.
Zygomatic Implants
These are a specialized option for patients with severe bone loss within the higher jaw. Rather than anchoring them to the jawbone, these tooth implants are anchored inside the cheekbone.
Features:
- Longer implants that reach the cheekbone for aid
- Often used while other implants are not feasible
- In need of a more complex surgery
Who They’re Best For:
Best suited for patients with excessive top jawbone loss who can no longer obtain conventional implants or bone grafts.
Types of Restorations Supported By Dental Implants
Let’s learn about the dental implants types and the restorations that they support.
Single-Tooth Implants
These implants, when paired with crowns, could replace a tooth that is missing and also protect surrounding bones and teeth. They function as natural teeth while providing patients with peace of mind, knowing that their smile will be secured and free of spaces between tooth and bone.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Instead of counting on natural teeth for support, implant-supported bridges are anchored by using implants on both sides. This is good for replacing a couple of missing teeth in a row.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, also known as overdentures, are secured to implants for extra balance in comparison to standard dentures. You can get them fixed or keep them removable, depending on your desire.
All-on-4 Implants
This is a novel approach where dental implant specialist uses just four implants to help a full arch of your teeth. It is a cost-effective answer for patients who want to replace a whole upper or lower set of teeth.
Aspects to Consider When Choosing a Dental Implant
Choosing the suitable types of implants involves several factors, including:
- Bone Health: How healthy and dense your jawbone is will affect whether you’ll need bone grafting or a specific implant type.
- Oral Health: Healthy gums are essential for successful implants. Any underlying gum disease should be treated before implant surgery.
- Budget: Different types of implants and restorations come with varying costs. Discuss your options with your dentist to find the right fit for your budget.
- Health Conditions: Diabetes or autoimmune disorders can hinder your decision to get dental implants, as the healing time and success rate will be impacted significantly.
Key Benefits Offered By Dental Implants
While you are sure to restore your smile, there are several other benefits offered by different types of implants that make them a perfect selection for tooth replacement:
- Dental implants are made to provide a natural look inside your mouth. You can, therefore, be assured that you will have a perfect appearance of your smile with no alteration in your appearance.
- Implants in the teeth can help with improved oral hygiene. Although missing teeth can cause difficulty to access certain parts of your mouth when flossing or brushing Implants can solve the problem after treatment is complete.
- The lack of oral hygiene due to missing teeth could create other health issues in addition to regular gum infections. Implants for dental purposes not only improve your oral health but also improve overall health. There is no longer a need to avoid certain foods because they are hard to chew or feel sensitive.
How to Care for Dental Implants
Caring for dental implants is as crucial as maintaining your regular oral care:
- Daily Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy.
- Regular Dental Visits: Pay timely visits to your dentist for routine checkups to ensure your tooth implant remains in good condition.
- Avoid Harmful Habits: Quit the habit of smoking or chewing on hard foods. They are known to damage dental implants.
Unlock Your Perfect Smile with Dental Implants
Understanding the different types of dental implants will help you make the best decision based on the needs of your mouth. Working collaboratively with your dentist, you’ll be able to choose the ideal implant and take advantage of a confident, healthy smile for many years.
If you’re in the market for dental implants and require professional guidance in selecting the best option for you, contact the experts at Tampa Dental Wellness today. The advice of an expert will assist you in understanding the best options and making choices that will be beneficial over the long term.
